Iranian women who received the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Conscience in 2023 stood before the European Parliament and made a clear statement: the Islamic Republic does not speak for the Iranian people, and there should be no contact with Tehran on behalf of the regime. Their message framed the award as a recognition of resilience and a demand for accountability, underscoring a long history of protest against coercive measures and state violence. The moment carried symbolic weight for many who have watched from abroad as activists push for dignity, human rights, and an end to repressive policies. [citation: European Parliament]
During a press briefing held ahead of the ceremony, several women activists addressed the media and emphasized a shared resolve. They described Iranians as prisoners within their own borders, while refusing to submit to fear. One speaker, Mersedeh Shahinkar, spoke passionately about resisting executions and oppression, insisting that the regime does not reflect the nation’s diverse voices. Her remarks framed the prize as a platform to amplify calls for freedom and the protection of basic rights. [citation: Conference remarks]
Shahinkar also highlighted a broader pattern of government actions that have shaped public life since the arrival of the last wave of leadership, noting that the regime has redirected attention away from the will of the people and toward restrictive governance. The message conveyed a demand for international attention and for consistent support for civil liberties, especially in a climate where dissent has faced harsh crackdowns. [citation: Human rights watchdog]
Afsoon Najafi added that political figures should stop extending invitations to Iranian leaders when the streets are filled with demonstrations sparked by recent tragedies. She pointed to the ongoing pressure experienced by protesters since the death of a young Kurdish woman and insisted that real solidarity requires more than slogans or symbolic gestures. Najafi urged policymakers to pursue actions that protect peaceful expression and safeguard the safety of those who take to the streets to demand accountability. [citation: Activist testimony]
The press conference addressed the absence of the family of a young woman who died in police custody after a dress code incident, with authorities citing travel bans and other restrictions. The family’s lawyer attended to request genuine, practical support from the Iranian people beyond empty declarations. This moment underscored the importance of listening to survivors and families affected by state policies, and it emphasized the need for transparent investigations and accountability mechanisms. [citation: Legal representative]
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola voiced strong support for the cause of Iranian women, stating that the Parliament is listening and stands with them. Her comments echoed the chamber’s history of addressing civil liberties concerns and highlighted four resolutions that condemned crackdowns in Tehran while calling for sanctions on those responsible for violence against pro-democracy demonstrations. Metsola’s remarks framed the award as part of a broader European commitment to human rights and the protection of peaceful protest. [citation: Parliament plenary remarks]
The candidacy, which centers on the life and courage of a young Kurdish woman, drew broad backing from a wide spectrum of European Parliament groups, including populists, social democrats, and liberals. The coalition of support reflected a shared belief that personal bravery and collective action can catalyze political change and highlight systemic abuses. The award thus served not only as recognition but as a call to sustain international attention and principled engagement with a country undergoing political tension and social upheaval. [citation: Parlement groups statement]